Year One

When Chris retired and I was offered the opportunity to take over afternoon drive on KMJ I was grateful. And when the subject of a co-host came up I was hesitant. My first co-host, to be frank, reinforced that instinct. But, wisely, Blake persisted. And he had a novel idea: Hire a rock radio DJ.

Ray & CD had set a precedent. Shoot, even "Bachelor Jeff" played a little music before he sold out... 

So, a coffee was scheduled. Then another. And we all took a leap of faith that led to a successful morning show signing off...and a new voice coming to KMJ. 

And, again, I find reason to be grateful. 

This job is about flexibility and curiosity. When Skip signed on, we were talking about year-end lists, an election that would be a second-term coronation, and the potential impact of mental health services on mass shootings. Big stories and holiday fluff. 

On January 7th two Iraqi bases holding US troops were targeted by Iranian missiles. We caught the breaking news and jumped in feet first. Skip admitted privately that it was a sharp departure, but she navigated it like a pro. 

She asked me if the job was always like that. I told her it was not. At the time I believed was speaking truthfully. 

Between the 12th and 19th we covered another three mass shootings. Five lives lost, dozens injured, and the call-and-response you all know and hate continued. Locally, a city councilman and a county supervisor were getting blasted for being on Twitter and having opinions. Terry Slatic’s management style was Fresno’s biggest story. Black Flag came to Fulton 55. Tool played the Save Mart Center. 

On January 21st, the US announced its first case of the coronavirus. China reported around 300 cases and 9 deaths. The first recorded US citizen infected was treated at a hospital in Seattle. On January 24th, a second case was confirmed in the US. The woman was traveling back to Chicago from China. 

I don’t have to tell you where the news has gone from there. Honestly, I don’t think I can. This year has been FUBAR in a way I don’t really understand. 

Every day this lady shows up, brings humor and empathy, and finds new perspectives on hundreds of stories, calls, and social media posts. She forgives my boorish behavior and cranky moods. Then, somehow, she finds the energy to help others through her mental health work. 

2020 has forced us to find new ways to share headlines and new ways to communicate with an audience that is understandably exhausted by The Story. 

Every day I find new ways to be impressed by Skip, every day I am grateful she’s here with us. KMJ is better for her inclusion, her kindness, and her strength. 

I’m sorry I lied when I said it wasn’t always like this. In my defense, I didn’t see 2020 coming. But every bit of the job is better for your being a part of it. 

Thank you.